GCVQ43 Ala-Googleish (Unknown Cache) in Alabama, United States created by Frodo13

This cache has been archived.

mtn-man: If you can fix or verify this cache it can be easily unarchived. For now I am going to archive it. Feel free to contact me through my profile linked below if you fix it.

NOTE: If you have any questions, do not reply to the archive note email. Click on the link to go to the cache page and click on my name in the archive log at the bottom of the page. You can then send me an email regarding the cache. Please send me a link to the cache in question so I will know which cache it is regarding.

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mtn-man
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GCVQ43 ▼

A cache by Frodo13 Message this owner

Hidden : 4/28/2006

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

This one will require skill with keyboard, logic and the GPS

The posted coordinates are in the same town, but you need to solve the first puzzle to get your correct starting point.

This Ala-Google-ish cache will require some cyber searching as well as some enjoyable ground work. Please do your homework before heading to class. Once in the field you may need to check your notes…

Always Playfair with Geocaching…
Start here and enjoy
QB WI WO QB KW YC QB WI WO RY OI YC QB WI WO QB OI KH WG OD HP HW OW

GN IK HF YC RN YS IQ OW OG BH QB WI WO RN YS CY XE QB OI OL NB OW

The parking lot you have found, salute the flags and begin your journey.

Stage One
It’s a structure you now seek. Its location is tied to the origin of the Alabama State Flag. What ancient flag was used as the basis for the Alabama state flag adopted in 1895? Half of your work is already here: W086° 33.651

Answer
St. Andrew’s Flag N33° 30.305
St. Patrick’s Flag N33° 32.363
St. Louis’ Flag N33° 33.333

Stage Two
The work begins…

The Golden Ratio provides the tool. Multiply it by the number of rivets on the horizontal handrail on one side of the verdent pedestrian conveyance. (Those ¾” bumps running down the metal handrail on each side).

Rail Rivets (one side) x Golden Ratio = X

Now round that number up to create a whole number.
That number thrice over is combined with 186

(X+X+X) + 186= yyy

N33° 32.yyy W086° 33.600

Stage Three
I hope you enjoyed the walk, the next journey will be much nicer, and perhaps more fun. Silver numerals keep watchful eyes on those below. Add all of the odd digits and find your prize.

Answer Location
7 N33° 33.241 W086° 33.782
9 N33° 32.758 W086° 33.031
14 N33° 32.152 W086° 33.541
11 N33° 32.534 W086° 33.313

Stage Four
Cornus florida has a neighbor who’s latin name will direct your next movement.

Answer Location
Nyssa Sylvatica N33° 32.127 W086° 33.648
Liquidambar Styraciflua N33° 31.213 W068° 33.559
Magnolia Grandiflora N33° 32.123 W088° 33.359

Stage Five
Are your fingers as nimble as your mind? Your eyes might deceive if you’re on the wrong side of the fence. The answer is near, so near.

Searching begins at home don’t forget you will need:
History of Alabama
Value for the Golden Ratio/ Golden proportion
A few Latin botanical names

Three travel bugs were placed in container when this was originally hidden.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

sebqbchmmyrf.oybtfcbg.pbz

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)